GRADE 9 Social Studies SOCIAL STUDIES AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT – PATHWAY CHOICES Notes
SOCIAL STUDIES — CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Subtopic: PATHWAY CHOICES (for learners ~14 years)
A pathway is the route you take from school to a job or career — for example, going to university, joining a technical college, learning a trade, or starting a small business. Pathway choices are the options you plan for after secondary school so you can reach the kind of work you want.
Usually needs good KCSE grades. Placement through KUCCPS for public universities.
Offered by technical institutes and polytechnics (TVETA-regulated). Good for practical careers like mechanics, ICT, building.
Learn a trade (hairdressing, tailoring, plumbing) through trade schools or being an apprentice with a skilled worker.
Some young people start work after short training or internships. Useful when you want income quickly.
Learn skills for running a business (budgeting, sales). Can be combined with vocational training.
- KCSE results guide where you can go: university, TVET, or other options.
- KUCCPS helps placement to public universities and some colleges.
- TVETA / Technical institutes offer certificates and diplomas for skilled jobs.
- Apprenticeships may lead to artisan or craft certification.
- What do I enjoy? (subjects, hobbies)
- What am I good at? (skills, school results)
- What jobs are needed where I live or where I may work?
- How much will training cost? Are there scholarships or loans?
- How long will it take to train?
- Do I want to be an employee or run my own business?
- Advice from parents, teachers and people working in careers you like.
1. Do a short self-test: list 3 things you like and 3 skills you have.
2. Read about jobs connected to the subjects you like.
3. Visit a technical school, college or workplace during a career day.
4. Try a short course or club activity related to a skill (e.g., coding club, agriculture project).
5. Make a 1-year and a 5-year plan and review it each year.
- Pair up and interview each other: "What job would you like? Why?" Write 3 steps to get there.
- Group task: Draw a pathway map from secondary school to your dream job using paper or the board.
- School career teacher / Guidance and Counselling — first place to ask.
- KNEC — information about national exams (KCSE).
- KUCCPS — placement information for university and some colleges.
- Local technical institutes / TVET centres — talk to admissions office.
✅ Possible jobs listed
✅ Cost & support known
✅ Make a small plan and try it
- "Only university leads to success" — false. Many skilled jobs pay well and are in demand.
- "If I change my mind, I have failed" — false. People change pathways and learn new skills throughout life.